February 28

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February, 2021, Abuja, Nigeria.

"Meemah, by Allah I'm saying the truth." Aabaan laughed while Munaya chuckled.

"Hm! May Allah deliver you, Aabaan. You were really stubborn back then—I had to tend to your bruises every single night because of how recklessly you played football with your friends. And I know you still are." It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon, and the family was enjoying each other's company. The scene was heartwarming, filled with love.

"Meemah, that was back then. I don't even play football now!" Aabaan said, while Amani and El-Kabir laughed at the look she was giving him.

"As if I'll believe him."

"Meemah, please believe him. I bet he still plays it," Amani said, laughing.

"Amani, you don't know him! Have you seen his room back then? The walls were covered with pictures of footballers. He was obsessed with them."

"Oh, my darling Meemah! Over the years, the obsession was replaced with boxing and going to the gym," he chuckled.

"I can see that. I'd be crushing on you if you weren't my brother. How can a person be this handsome?" Noor thought aloud without realizing it. She only snapped out of her reverie when she saw everyone laughing. Amani and Ikram tapped her, jerking her back to reality.

She ducked her head in embarrassment, her cheeks flushed.

"So, you and Amani are thinking about boys now, right Noor?" El-Kabir teased.

The girls gasped, shaking their heads. "No, Daddy! By Allah, we don't have boyfriends!" They said in unison, eliciting more laughter.

"Good. You can keep one after high school. For now, focus on your studies," El-Kabir said with a smile, and they both nodded.

"We really need a vacation, don't you all think so?" El-Kabir suggested, and the kids lit up with excitement.

"Oh, yes, Daddy! We really need one," Ikram chimed in enthusiastically.

"Where would you love to go, my love?" El-Kabir asked affectionately, caressing Munaya's hand.

Munaya smiled. "Anywhere the kids decide. I have no problem with that."

"Okay, my love. Kiddos, it's your choice," El-Kabir said, and the parlor filled with chattering about potential vacation spots.

Munaya smiled, wiping away a tear. This was one of those precious moments she wished she could pause. She had missed this for sixteen years—moments with her husband and children. Ya Allah. Mariya and Kalthum had done her and her sister no justice. She sighed, her smile broadening. She wouldn't dwell on the past anymore but would enjoy the present and focus on the future.

She locked eyes with Aabaan, who gave her a knowing smile, his gaze silently encouraging her to stay in the moment. She returned his smile and nodded.

El-Kabir gently squeezed her hand and smiled. "Didn't we agree on no more tears, my love?"

"It's just so overwhelming, my love. But I promise you, no more tears, In Sha Allah," she said, smiling at him, which he returned before gently kissing her forehead, placing her head on his chest. The room fell silent as the kids looked on, admiring the bond between their parents.

The kids finally settled on a vacation destination and informed El-Kabir, then started leaving the parlor one by one, allowing the couple some time alone. Aabaan also stood up.

"I'll go greet Aunt Safna in her chamber, then head back home. See you tomorrow, Meemah," he said, placing a kiss on her hand.

"Look at him, using Safna as an excuse to see Jaiyana," Munaya teased, making Aabaan and El-Kabir laugh.